I have experience at all levels of government and across the country. The most valuable two skills that I possess that qualify me for this position are the abilities to listen and ask questions. I plan to do a lot of both in office.
I would propose bringing our schools back to the basics of fundamental learning. Our state agency should do better to update curriculum and teach instructors. But really we are asking too much of our schools. They have become mental health clinics, special education hubs, childcare, family services, etc. All of these causes are worthy, but kids aren't learning well enough - the primary purpose of our schools. And the property tax continues to rise as mandates shift to schools from other state resources. We can regionalize resources, set goals, and lower healthcare costs. But specific to costs and quality, we should reevaluate what we're asking of our schools and how we are executing our mission. We must set the gold standard of learning.
I would empower towns to make their own land-use decisions through an elected selectboard. I would limit regional planning to advisory status and streamline Act 250 permitting and proceedings. I would allow current use to count toward our conservation goals and I would encourage the diversification of farming. Right now, the only people building housing in my neck of the woods is the wealthy. We have to do better for regular Vermonters who want to call this place home. Our land-use laws are retrofitted for a past era and need updating fast.
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Campaign Phone
8023563582
Candidate For Office
State Rep Windsor D1
I've been a small business owner for many years, and I know firsthand how important local businesses are to the fabric of our communities — and how much harder it's gotten to run one.
I spent three terms as a member of Windsor 's selectboard, and chair for 5 of those years.
As a contractor, I focus on renovating homes and buildings with a focus on rental housing.
I'm hopeful that the foundation formula will be successful. It will need solid oversight as it is implemented.
For savings, I would start with administration and duplication rather than beginning with classroom teachers or programs serving students. Taxpayers should be happy with spending taxpayer money on education, as long as they are seeing the necessary results for all students.
With the foundation formula giving Vermont the opportunity to be more transparent in spending, it will be important to understand where the money is used, ensuring that it is done so for the benefit of every students needs, and not duplication and administrative waste.
As a contractor and former select board member dealing with zoning oversight, I would like to see a more reasonable approach. Not just no you can't, and more of you can't like this but let's figure out how to make it work. The state needs to be more proactive in helping the development of affordable housing, while maintaining certain guidelines to protect the beauty of Vermont that we all love.
